Flaky Apple Pie Bars

Apple pie bars have captured the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere, offering the beloved flavors of traditional apple pie in a convenient and shareable format. These delectable treats are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of tea or coffee. The appeal of apple pie bars lies not only in their delicious taste but also in the comforting nostalgia they evoke. For many, apple desserts bring back memories of family gatherings, fall harvests, and cozy evenings spent baking in the kitchen.

Discover the joy of baking with Flaky Apple Pie Bars, a delightful twist on the classic apple pie! These scrumptious bars combine a buttery, flaky crust, spiced Granny Smith apples, and a crunchy oat topping, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Easy to prepare and share, they evoke nostalgia and warmth. Enjoy these delicious treats year-round! #ApplePieBars #Baking #FallDesserts #AppleDesserts #SweetTreats #NostalgicSweets

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)

For the Filling:

4 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

3/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping:

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Add chilled butter cubes and combine using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Make the Filling: In another bowl, combine sliced apples with brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting.

Roll Out the Bottom Crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc to fit the bottom of the prepared pan. Place it in the pan, pressing down to ensure it’s evenly distributed.

Add the Apple Filling: Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust, making sure to distribute the apples well.

Prepare the Oat Topping: In a small bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until combined. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the apple filling.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.

Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan onto a cutting board. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 12 bars